Review of Suzume

Never have I ever wanted to be a 3-legged chair before in my entire life. Here we go, my first review on MyAnimeList. Let's see how this goes. Makoto Shinkai brings yet another masterwork into the animation medium. The film Suzume no Tojimari is brimming with breathtaking visuals that encapsulate the beauty and the horror that prevails over the country of Japan. The set-pieces are gigantic, detailed and resemble the real life locations really well. The score fits the theme of the movie and elevates the overall ethereal experience of the world within it. Radwimps has done it again. The story follows Suzume, a bright cheerful girl, and Souta, a mysterious man, ona cross-country adventure. Their goal is to close the enigmatic doors spread across the locations that have been locked away by the people. The movie does well in explaining the various rules that govern these mysterious doors, and establishes the surreal events that take place thereafter masterfully.

On her journey, Suzume comes across multiple people who guide her and provide assistance along the way. Though it's the main duo, or should I say "trio", that carry the film. Suzume's backstory is one to pull at your heartstrings, and it works. Such is the charm of Shinkai's works.

The film also has the usual rom-com nature that is present in Shinkai's movies. It makes for a good way to relieve oneself from the trauma and depressing world that is prevalent throughout. Though the romance could have been portrayed better, since it plays a "key" role in the decisions made by the endearing characters.

The film shines in portraying the consequences of disasters. The loss, helplessness and despair that follow are effectively captured here. It's an experience that must be had on a big screen. My first Shinkai film in a movie theatre, and definitely not the last.